Kentucky football: Former Florida State QB trolls every player in the transfer portal

The transfer portal has become a defining feature of modern college sports, offering athletes an unprecedented level of mobility. While it provides opportunities for players to seek better fits, more playing time, or financial gains through NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, critics argue it undermines traditional values of loyalty and player development. There is no doubt that it impacts the programs ability to maintain a program, as players can leave in December even if they were key contributors like Maalik Murphy or Dane Key.

Danny Kanell, a former Florida State quarterback and current CBS analyst, recently sparked debate with his criticism of the transfer portal culture. His viral tweet struck a chord: “If you are going to enter the transfer portal, just go. It's your right. Go get your $$$. But can we please stop with the lengthy love letters professing 'I'll always be a __________' and how much you love your coaches and teammates??? No…you won't be. No…you don't."

Kanell’s comments reflect frustration with players leaving programs, often after just one season, without fully committing to development or earning their opportunities. A two-year starter at Florida State, Kanell speaks from experience. In his era, athletes faced limited options and often spent years working their way up the depth chart.

Now, the transfer portal allows immediate eligibility and a streamlined exit for players unhappy with their situations. While this offers undeniable benefits—helping athletes find programs where they can thrive—it has created a culture of short-term thinking. The patience and resilience once valued in college sports are being replaced by a system that encourages athletes to leave rather than compete for playing time or grow within a program.

Kanell’s faux "love letter" parody underscores his belief that many players view the portal as a shortcut rather than a solution. His critique raises the question: has the transfer portal swung too far in enabling player autonomy at the expense of team continuity and personal growth?

For better or worse, the transfer portal isn’t going anywhere. It has fundamentally reshaped college sports, forcing coaches, fans, and players to adapt to a system where loyalty and long-term commitment often take a backseat to immediate gratification. We do have to find a happier medium, or we may as well just call it free agency, because that is what it is.